The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) has applauded the newly elected president of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) opposition candidate Mr. Felix Tshisekedi after been elected President.
YALI President Andrew Ntewewe says DRC has never had any meaningful democratic elections since attaining independence and this is good for democracy.
Mr. Ntewewe said election was closely contested, demonstrating the passion for democracy but most importantly it was held in a relatively peaceful manner.
He said that SADC also deserves special commendation for the exemplary manner in which it has handled this matter which could have degenerated into a serious crisis for the whole region.
Mr. Ntwewewe further extend the organisations heartfelt congratulations to Chair of the SADC organ on Politics, Defence and Security for the phenomenon and excellent international diplomacy to the Zambian President, His Excellency President Edgar Lungu.
“Particularly gratified that Zambia has taken its rightful leadership role in the regional and international politics to promote democracy and human development in Africa. We look forward to Zambia taking the Chairmanship of the African Union in 2022,” Mr. Ntwewewe said.
He adds that its not an easy undertaking as it requires effective servant leadership with unwavering commitment to promote democracy, freedom, peace, stability and development on the continent of Africa, is what Zambia is renowned for being a beacon of peace for the whole continent.
“As YALI, we take cognisant of the various meetings that President Edgar Lungu has held with various leaders in the region which has been a marathon tour of various capitals to convene and meet various stakeholders including the outgoing president of the DRC, His Excellency, President Joseph Kabila, opposition leaders in the DRC, the church leaders, civil society leaders and other various interest groups region,” Mr. Ntwewewe said.